Modern Development of Shaolin Kung Fu

During the reign (1722-1735) of Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), the practice of all forms of martial arts was forbidden. Shaolin Temple, however, is said to have continued the practice of wushu in secret, and even helped to organize the continued teaching and practice of wushu throughout the country. In any case, after the fall of China's last Imperial dynasty, wushu blossomed, and Shaolin Temple could again openly teach it (banning an activity, paradoxically, seems to be one of the best ways to spark interest in it, as the prohibition of alcoholic beverages in the US from 1919-1933 proved!). Martial arts was again banned during China's Cultural Revolution (1966-76), but quickly bounced back afterward.